The ultimate Windows Secrets utilities list

Windows is a comprehensive operating system replete with tools for diagnosing, repairing, and configuring a PC system. But Windows users have also relied on innovative third-party utilities to help Windows run and work even better.

Here’s a list of excellent utilities — some from Microsoft, but most from other software vendors — that have been recommended in Windows Secrets articles.

Most of these apps have been around for years and have proven to be useful, safe, and reliable. However, it’s important to note that Windows systems are endlessly different in their configurations and applications. Which means we can’t guarantee that all of these utilities will work perfectly on every PC.

Undoubtedly, you’ll have one or more favorite utilities that are not on the list. We invite you to share them in the Windows Secrets Lounge forum. We’ll periodically update the list; if we’ve missed what you believe is a must-have app, lets us know and we’ll consider adding it.

A word on downloading some of these utilities: make sure that big Download button on the utility’s page is the right one. Some sites try to trick you into downloading third-party, often unwanted, helper apps.

(Note: We have linked each product to it’s information/download page online. Products have been recommended by Windows Secrets contributors except where noted.)

Trademarks: Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. The Windows Secrets series of books is published by Wiley Publishing Inc. The Windows Secrets Newsletter, WindowsSecrets.com, WinFind, Windows Gizmos, Security Baseline, Patch Watch, Perimeter Scan, Wacky Web Week, the Logo Design (W, S or road, and Star), and the slogan Everything Microsoft Forgot to Mention all are trademarks and service marks of iNET Interactive. All other marks are the trademarks or service marks of their respective owners.